“Do I change my filter during air conditioning season?” We’re asked that question quite often.
Here’s what you need to know.
The filter on a central air conditioning unit is a vital but often unappreciated component.
Between regular annual AC tune-ups, the one thing that you can do as a homeowner to help with your air conditioner’s efficiency is replacing the air filter.
Changing the air conditioning filter is not only important to improving the air quality in your home, but also the overall effectiveness and efficiency of your air conditioner.
When should you change your AC Filter?
You should change your filter during AC season just as often as you would during heating season.
We recently explained why you should change your filter every month during the winter heating season, and it is the same for the summer too.
We recommend that you change your air conditioning filter monthly to ensure efficient operation.
If you have issues with allergies or other contaminants, you may want to consider upgrading the filter to an allergen filter, but we recommend using the most inexpensive filter, as it will be replaced frequently.
What about in a vacation home?
Of course, if you have a vacation home that is occupied infrequently, you may be able to get away with replacing the AC filter as little as every 6 to 12 months.
However, this recommendation is in proportion to the amount of time the vacation home is used.
We like to make a habit of changing our AC filter at the cabin once at the beginning of summer and once before the start of winter.
Why is a changing the AC filter important?
The U.S. Department of Energy states not replacing dirty air conditioning filters can increase the energy consumption of your air conditioner by 5 to 10 percent.
The dirty AC filter will not only cause you to use more energy and be more expensive to run, but it will also restrict the unit’s airflow, placing a strain on your AC and making it work harder.
The added wear and tear can decrease the air conditioner’s lifespan, and make it cost more to maintain and repair.
You are doing yourself and your AC unit a favor by changing the filter.
Remember that a clean filter means clean air too!
Conclusion
Do you still have questions? What haven’t we covered yet that is important to you?
If you need help changing air conditioner filters, please contact us and tell us what you need us to do for you.
We cover Blaine, Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Eagan, Edina, Hastings, Maplewood, Minneapolis, Minnetonka, Roseville, North Saint Paul, Saint Paul, Saint Paul Park, South Saint Paul, Stillwater, West Lakeland, West Saint Paul, White Bear Lake, Woodbury, and many more locations.
Can’t find your town listed? Contact us at (651) 294-7798 to tell us where you live, so we can help you change your AC filter.
